Indian Catholic Youth Program Trains Students for Faith-Based Leadership

The Youth Commission of the Telugu Catholic Bishops' Conference (TCBC) held a two-day leadership training program for secondary school students, encouraging them to become faith-filled leaders committed to serving the Church and society.

The July 29–30 program, held at Holy Mary High School in Hyderabad, the capital of the southern Indian state of Telangana, brought together members of the Young Christian Students (YCS) and Young Student Movement (YSM) from Classes IX and X.

Organized through the Telugu Catholic Youth Movement (TCYM), the formation program focused on leadership development, Christian values, teamwork, and active participation in the Church's mission.

Fr. Medi Sleevaraj, SDB, regional youth director of the TCBC Youth Commission, led sessions on values and ethics, stress management, and the responsible use of social media. He encouraged participants to develop emotional resilience, uphold Christian values, and use digital platforms responsibly.

A. Jesney Mary, general secretary of the Youth Commission of the Archdiocese of Hyderabad, conducted workshops on time management and effective study skills, equipping students with practical tools for academic success and personal growth.

The program emphasized interactive learning through group discussions, practical exercises, and team activities designed to strengthen leadership skills, cooperation, and a spirit of service.

Organizers said the initiative forms part of the TCBC Youth Commission's ongoing efforts to accompany young people and prepare them to become responsible citizens and active contributors in their schools, parishes, and communities.

Participants concluded the program by expressing their commitment to applying the lessons they learned in their daily lives and to serving the Church with faith and responsibility.